In the race to faster and fitter, an athlete’s oral health can sometimes end up coming in last. As your Dentist in Flushing, NY, we’d like to make sure you don’t forget about your teeth in your quest for the win, and that’s why we urge you to give the same attention to your mouth as you would to your game and exercise strategy. In the race to faster and fitter, an athlete’s oral health can sometimes end up coming in last.

Our first recommendation for anyone who participates in a sport or recreational activity that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth is to get fitted for a custom mouth guard. This important piece of athletic equipment can cushion a blow that might otherwise cause broken teeth and injuries to lips, tongue, face or jaw. A custom-fitted mouth guard is an essential smile saver, however it’s important to remove your mouth guard when you consume sports drinks in order to minimize the residual effect of corroding acids on your teeth.

That leads to our second suggestion, which is to be very aware of the food and drink you consume, including sports drinks, protein shakes and protein/meal replacement bars. The sugar, acids and carbs in these supplements, coupled with a possible workout-induced absence of saliva in the mouth to help wash them away, can quickly lead to tooth decay.

If you’re a serious athlete in need of not only hydraulic but also carbs and electrolytes necessary to get you through to the end of your event, choose a low-sugar sports drink over a regular one. Otherwise most regular exercise needs can be adequately taken care of with the ultimate thirst quencher – water! At the very least, remember to rinse your mouth out with water after consuming sports drinks and protein bars to help wash away corrosive properties and halt bacterial overgrowth.

Running Into Tooth Pain?

Have you ever experienced tooth pain while walking, running, or jumping? Feeling pain in your mouth when your foot hits the ground can result from any of the causes below.

A cavity in a tooth. In addition to pain while walking or running, you may also notice tooth sensitivity or perhaps a painful throbbing in your tooth when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and drinks.

A broken or cracked tooth. You may be able to feel the jagged edge of a chipped tooth with your tongue, or tooth could be cracked and the damage invisible or hard to pinpoint.

Gum disease, or periodontitis. Inflamed gums can make your teeth and gums extra-sensitive, while heavy breathing during exercise may also exacerbate the sensation. Severe periodontitis can lead to the loss of bone and tissue that support your teeth, making them loose and vulnerable to loss.

A sinus infection. Once we rule out any dental causes, we may recommend you check out the pain with your doctor to find out if it is sinus-related, especially if you’re feeling discomfort in your upper, posterior teeth. Sinusitis, the inflammation of one or more sinuses due to a bacterial infection, or sinus congestion from a cold, flu or allergy can sometimes present the same symptoms as a toothache.

Please never hesitate to call your Dentist in Flushing, NY with any questions about oral pain or discomfort.

is a trained and experienced Queens dentist who has been delivering cosmetic, implant and functional solutions to patients for over 25 years. His mastery of the art had made him a sought after Queens dentist for even the most challenging dental situations. His commitment to “doing it right” and ability to “handle just about anything” has won him the admiration of both patients and doctors.Read more about the doctor